The Shire of Augusta Margaret River issued a warning on Friday afternoon, asking people in the region to avoid using the Blackwood River for at least three to four days.

According to a statement released by the Shire, river levels are elevated due to the heavy rains which fell across the South West and Great Southern this week.

Extreme rapids, unusual currents and fast flowing water could be hazardous to river users, and the Shire advised locals and visitors not to swim, kayak or participate in water activities in the river this weekend.

Flood waters are expected to move downstream from Friday 17 February through to Tuesday 21 February.